Nepal Spice Kitchen

Looking for some cuisine from the other side of the Asian continent? Look no further than Kastahamandap Nepal Spice Kitchen.

Conveniently located just off Highway 58, the catchy little red building with its name in yellow and alluring eyes logo kind of draws you in. Park up in their modest car park and make your way inside.

To your left as you make your entrance is a cheery Ganesha painting to greet you (Ganesha is the Hindu Deity of removing obstacles), and to your right is a slightly enclosed, traditional Japanese dining area (one table, low, and which requires you to remove your shoes before entry). Ahead in the main dining area, there is another Ganesha to greet you, this time in the form of an opulent statue. A member of staff will seat you at one of their generously sized tables and hand you a menu. I particularly loved the traditional Nepalese art, the bright tablecloths, and the Bhangra music that plays softly in the background.

Food is just incredible. They have a great value range of set meals, as well as full sized curries to sample. I opted for the former. Set D came with two curries, rice, salad, tandoori chicken, naan, drink, and a dessert, all for under 2,000 yen. I chose a dhal (a lentil curry that is divine and very common in India) and a chicken dopiaza (my all time favourite curry!) as my curries, and a mango lassi as my drink (more on drinks shortly). Service is courteous and efficient. Food is presented on a large stainless steel platter, with each dish in individual stainless steel containers, a manner common in both India and Nepal. Delightful. At first it seems like the portions are too small, as each dish is small enough to sit in the palm of your hand, but it quickly becomes apparent that it’s more than enough! Everything comes out fresh cooked, the naan is a decent size, and the flavours are strong and sumptuous. Dessert was a sweet vanilla ice cream, a nice end to a wonderful meal. I’d have been tempted to eat more if I weren’t so full! If you’re looking for that authentic Indian/Nepalese experience, this is most certainly the place for you.

Drinks? There’s a pretty good selection. Sample one of the beers, play it safe with a soft drink, or go traditional with a lassi. I mentioned this before, but what is it? Lassi is an Indian drink made with yogurt. You can get it plain or with fruit. The mango lassi is the best! not too thick, refreshing, and with a small tang. It’s a great accompaniment to your meal.

They also offer take out, perfect if you don’t want to cook but you don’t feel like dressing up!

They’re open daily 1130-0000 midnight, with lunch running from 1130-1500, and dinner from 1500 until closing.

Takeout OK, can call ahead to make reservations for groups

By Louise Dupuy